Elucidating the role of OsMyb-R1 in Arabidopsis under drought stress using RNA-Seq approach among over-expressing and wild-type plants

In this study, we targeted Myb TF to functionally characterize its role in imparting abiotic stress tolerance, particularly in drought, using the gain of function approach. Ectopic expression of OsMyb-R1 in Arabidopsis resulted in the drought/PEG tolerant phenotype, while wild-type plants could not manage to grow efficiently under water deficit stresses. Comparative transcriptome analysis of wild type (Col-0) and OsMyb-R1 overexpressing seedling and in vitro experiments documented the enhanced expression of several stress-responsive genes, hormones related genes as well as other regulatory genes. In the present study, we observed differential expression patterns of auxin, ABA, and salicylic acid metabolism and responsive genes. In vitro analysis also suggests the active involvement of these hormones during drought stress in OsMyb-R1 expressing Arabidopsis as compared to wild-type. Overall, the present study put forward OsMyb-R1, which is playing an essential role in augmenting drought stress tolerance of over-expressing transgenic lines by modifying molecular signaling, internal cellular homeostasis, and root morphology.